Swallows, Digital Nomads, Graduates and Job Changers – Beware of New Visa Application Processes
Are you planning to visit South Africa and stay longer than your visa exemption of 90 (or 30) days?
Are you changing schools or jobs, waiting for results, acceptance, or a new contract?
Perhaps you were planning to arrive in South Africa and apply for a visa extension from within the country. Or you may be graduating soon and waiting for your results or university admission. Maybe you’ve checked the process or even done it before without any problems.
A significant change has come into effect in recent months that could impact your plans.
Until recently, it was possible to submit an extension (or change of status or conditions) application up until the very last day of your visa’s validity, provided you had good reasons for applying “late” (i.e. within 60 days of expiry). This is no longer accepted.
In what appears to be a newly introduced enforcement of an existing 2014 regulation, most applications for an extension or change of visa submitted less than 60 days before expiry are now being rejected as “late applications.” Reasons for the delay are no longer being considered, and this practice is being applied retrospectively, affecting even those applications already lodged.
What this means for you:
- Long-term visitors and tourists: Submit your visa extension application as early as possible after arriving in South Africa.
- Job or school changes, or long-term visa renewals: Begin preparations well in advance of your visa expiry date.
- If in doubt or already running out of time: Get expert advice immediately. IMCOSA offers up-to-date, accurate and practical guidance for all your visa questions and needs.